Cafe recommendations
near hku 2.0
Sharon Abratique
As COVID slowly but steadily leaves Hong Kong, it's quite the right time to explore more of HKU and its surroundings. Here are two more coffee shop recommendations from Malachite for when our international friends come back to HK! You can also take a look at the previous post for other options.
After Taste COffee
Photo by After Taste Coffee on Instagram
Down the slope on Western Street, After Taste sits just opposite to the little chapel. You are instantly drawn by the large French doors that frames the shop, along with the soft warm lighting inside. It may not be the most spacious coffee shop in the district, but the cozy and homey vibes makes After Taste one of the best spots for a productive yet relaxing day.
Almost every customer will order an iced drink from the shop, because of how unique and IG-worthy the glass looks. Its diamond-shaped bottom sits perfectly on the specially designed coaster, and when your coffee is topped with foamy milk, the glass instantly looks a bit like Mount Fuji (just give it some imagination, trust me).
For those cooler days when you want to enjoy the breeze, outdoor seating is also available. The shop is also known for its all day breakfasts, so definitely give it a try if you get hungry. Cafes nearby usually close at 6pm, but you can get two extra hours at After Taste, and admire the cityscape at night as you walk down Western Street.
Location: G/F, 21 Western Street, Sai Ying Pun
Opening Hours: 11am - 8pm daily
Instagram: @after_taste.hk
Photos by @hkhungryfoodie
14 south lane
Photo by @hkhungryfoodie
Tucked away in the corner of South Lane, just opposite to The Westwood, 14 South Lane attracts you with its natural and vintage atmosphere. As a coffee shop that opened just recently, it has already become a go-to spot for those who go to work nearby. What makes this cafe special is that they also provide vegan options, which can be a pain to find in Hong Kong.
The coffee shop is quite spacious compared to the ones nearby, and its decorations resonate with the overall vibe of the cafe – natural, organic, laid-back. Since it is below ground level, the views might not be that spectacular, but the amount of natural light let in can still brighten your day.
Location: G/F, 14 South Lane, Shek Tong Tsui
Opening Hours: 8am - 5pm daily
Instagram: @14southlane
Photo by @hkhungryfoodie